Eredivisie football will return this weekend after its hiatus for international fixtures. Mark van Bommel chatted to the press ahead of PSV’s fixture at home to league leaders Vitesse on Saturday night. ”We face an important run of games, with four home matches in less than two weeks’ time. I feel confident in the ability of my players and we are looking forward to the challenge”, said Van Bommel.
The dust has settled
Now that the summer transfer window has closed and the dust has settled, a renewed PSV side have qualified for the Europa League group stage and collected ten points from their four Eredivisie opening games. “The international break gave us time to work on tactics with the lads that stayed behind. We put in a fine display against FC Köln in an international friendly and had a few days off”, said Van Bommel before he provided an injury update. “We have some new news on the injury front but unfortunately Erick Gutierrez suffered a metacarpal fracture while on international duty with Mexico and he will play no part in Saturday’s clash with Vitesse.”
Donyell Malen
“Ryan Thomas, Ibrahim Afellay, Gastón Pereiro and Sam Lammers face lengthy injuries. Pereiro is making steady progress in his recovery from a broken collarbone. He is doing running drills and works hard to return to full fitness.” The options PSV have in attack should provide exciting football. Donyell Malen marked his Netherlands debut against Germany with a goal. “He has made me very proud. I straightaway texted him to congratulate him on his debut but it took a while before he had an opportunity to reply as his phone never stopped ringing.”
‘A stronger and larger squad than last season’
'I’m working with a stronger and larger squad than last season”, said Van Bommel. “I don’t like to ring wholesale changes in the squad but we have a big enough squad to rotate players more often than last year. Substitutions often pay off and we have the luxury of being able to play more than one style of football.”
‘Must win our home games’
Van Bommel is impressed by Vitesse’s excellent start to the new season. “They drew 2-2 with Ajax in the opening game of the season and are currently top of the table. They will travel to Eindhoven, feeling confident. They have bolstered their squad with some fine signings. I think Vitesse are a really good side, going forward with skilful wingers providing support to Matavz and Linssen, their two great strikers up front. But we play at home and must win this game”, concluded Van Bommel.